Donate to the Library

Message from Library Director, Jack Martin

As Rhode Island's premiere public library, Providence Public Library aspires also to be one of the best public libraries in the nation. This aspiration reflects our community's steadfast support and commitment to the Library and its role as a center of knowledge and education and promoter of civic and cultural conversation.

The Library champions the joy of reading and lifelong learning. Children’s programs, family and community events nurture the imagination. Our collections support the joy of reading, research, skill development and entrepreneurship. Our commitment to the state's and all Rhode Islanders' economic advancement is realized through supportive programs and services at the Library, online, and at various sites statewide.

Providence Public Library Foundation MissionThe PPL Foundation ensures continued excellence in library services for the Providence Public Library community by providing private funding to enhance programs and services.

Philanthropy makes it possible for Providence Public Library to deliver high quality programs and services. Through your donations, volunteering and advocacy you champion the joys of reading, skill development, research and civic conversation.

There are many ways for you to make a difference!

Depending on the specific arrangement, your charitable gift to Providence Public Library can result in the following tax benefits.

Outright current gifts allow the donor to see the benefit of his/her gift at work. Gifts of money and gifts of appreciated stock held long-term or appreciated real property are generally the type of outright gifts made by donors. Outright gifts of cash, securities, or real property generally allow a current charitable tax deduction and have the effect of reducing federal estate taxes by reducing the amount of assets in the estate at death. Cash gifts (check, charge) have as their benefit, simplicity and ease of delivery. Gifts of appreciated stock or real property (held over one year) permit the donor to make a larger gift at a lower cost through use of the charitable deduction for the full fair market value of the gift. Such a gift also enables the donor to escape any tax on capital gains with respect to the property contributed.

You may make a tax-deductible donation to support the Library at any time by mailing a check payable to Providence Public Library Foundation or charging a donation securely online.

If you would like to discuss giving options, please contact the Development Office at 401-455-8003. The Library welcomes gifts of any amount.

Your Providence Public Library

Providence Public Library is an essential agency of public education and crucial to the infrastructure of the Rhode Island community. We are one of the few major libraries in the United States that is a private not-for-profit institution governed by a Board of Directors, giving us the flexibility to respond to community need rapidly and effectively. More...